The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) are monitoring the Zika virus outbreak impacting the U.S. states and territories, Central and South America, Mexico, and parts of the Caribbean.

For the most up-to-date information, check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Zika website frequently. Vectors that can transmit Zika virus are or have been previously found in U.S. territories and some U.S. states. Although active Zika virus transmission has been detected in some areas of the United States, most cases of Zika virus have been travel-associated.

Visit the CDC Areas with Zika website to learn where cases of local mosquito-borne transmission of Zika virus disease have been reported and where there is active transmission. Workers who are exposed on the job to mosquitoes or the blood or other body fluids of infected individuals may be at risk for occupationally acquired Zika virus infection.

This interim guidance provides employers and workers, including workers who are or may become pregnant or whose sexual partners are or may become pregnant, with information and guidance on preventing occupational exposure to the Zika virus.

This new version of the guidance:

Updates information about Zika virus exposure risk and transmission

Clarifies steps for protecting workers from exposure, including those required by OSHA standards

Provides additional information about using insect repellants

Integrates CDC’s public health recommendations as they apply to workers and employers

The guidance may be updated as additional information becomes available.